First Financial Member Spotlight: Michael Balsamo

For more than 20 years, Michael Balsamo has trusted First Financial as his banking partner. As a seasoned realtor with a deep commitment to his clients, Michael values the personalized service and support he experiences every time he walks into a First Financial branch. “Whenever I walk into a branch, everybody says hello and makes me feel like a member of their family,” he shares. With a special appreciation for the Toms River branch, Michael often works closely with Branch Manager Brian Lang and his team, who he says consistently provide “top-notch” service.

As a full-time real estate agent with REMAX Revolution, Michael’s clients depend on him to recommend reliable mortgage solutions, and First Financial is at the top of his list. In addition to mortgage services, Michael finds First Financial’s online banking tools essential for managing his day-to-day transactions. “I pay my bills online, and if I ever have a question, their 800-number support is always helpful,” he says. First Financial’s blend of convenience and reliability allows him to bank wherever and whenever he needs to, making it easy to stay on top of his finances.

Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with First Financial – Michael confidently shares, “I would never think of banking with anyone else. It’s been over 20 years, and I’m never going to leave.”

We’re honored to be part of Michael’s financial journey and are committed to providing him with exceptional service. Be sure to check out his video interview below.

How to Join First Financial

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in NJ, you’re eligible to become a First Financial member. Businesses in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and our community partners are also eligible for membership. To join, simply open a savings account with $5 — it’s that easy! Once you’re a member, your immediate family can also sign up. To get started, call us at 732.312.1500, email info@firstffcu.com, or stop by any of our local branches.

First Financial Member Spotlight: Lorna Cooper-Piver

“All through the years I’ve been coming, all 47 years – First Financial has been a solid place to bank.”

Since March of 1976, First Financial has had the privilege of being part of Lorna Cooper-Piver’s financial journey. Lorna’s story is not just one of long-standing membership, but also a testament to the unwavering trust and support she has found in banking with us.

Lorna’s connection with First Financial began while she was still a high school senior. Encouraged by her father, she opened a savings account. It was a step toward building a secure financial future, and little did she know – it would mark the beginning of a decades-long relationship.

Toward the beginning of her membership, Lorna applied for a car loan that was quick and simple to attain. This showcased our commitment to providing opportunities for our members, even those just starting out in their financial journey.

Lorna’s story is a reminder of the enduring relationships we build with our members. We’re not just a financial institution – we’re a partner in your financial well-being, offering reliability and support through every stage of life.

Check out our video interview with Lorna and learn more about her remarkable journey as a long-time First Financial member.

How to join First Financial

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in NJ, you’re eligible to become a member. Businesses in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and our community partners are also eligible for membership. To join, all you have to do is open a savings account with $5. It’s that easy! Once you’re a member, your immediate family can also sign up. To get started, call us at 732.312.1500, email info@firstffcu.com, or stop by any of our local branches.

First Financial Member Spotlight: Brian Jackson

“If you’re looking for a bank where you can feel at home, choose First Financial.”

Welcome back to our First Financial member spotlight – a series featuring some of our valued credit union members who have happily worked with us over the years. Next up is our long-time member, Brian Jackson.

Brian has been banking with us for over 35 years. He was even a member back when we were known as Mon-Oc Teachers Federal Credit Union, 28 years ago! Brian takes full advantage of our membership benefits and has a savings and checking account with us.

Watch the video to learn how we exceeded Brian’s expectations throughout the pandemic and as he works toward retirement!

How to join First Financial

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in NJ, you’re eligible to become a member. Businesses in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and our community partners are also eligible for membership. To join, all you have to do is open a savings account with $5. It’s that easy! Once you’re a member, your immediate family can also sign up. To get started, call us at 732.312.1500, email info@firstffcu.com, or stop by any of our local branches.

First Financial Member Spotlight: Lauren Griffin

“First Financial knows their members. And that really makes a huge difference.”

Welcome to our First Financial member spotlight – a series where we feature some of our personal and business credit union members who we’ve happily worked with over the years. Next up is Freehold/Howell Branch member, Lauren Griffin.

Lauren initially came to First Financial when she was a new teacher looking for good rates and a safe place to put her money. After a positive experience obtaining a car loan, Lauren continued her membership with checking and savings accounts. Watch the video to learn more about her experience with us!

How to join First Financial

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in NJ, you’re eligible to become a member. Businesses in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and our community partners are also eligible for membership. To join, all you have to do is open a savings account with $5. It’s that easy! Once you’re a member, your immediate family can also sign up. To get started, call us at 732.312.1500, email info@firstffcu.com, or stop by any of our local branches.

First Financial Member Spotlight: Susan West Hebert

“I’m treated with dignity and respect. What really speaks to me is the respect they have for the community.”

Welcome to our First Financial member spotlight – a series where we feature some of our personal and business credit union members who we’ve happily worked with over the years. Next up is long-time member, Susan West Hebert.

As a former employee of the Freehold Regional High School District (one of our community partners), Susan became interested in banking with a credit union once she learned about it through her employer. After being warmly welcomed at our Freehold branch, Susan knew First Financial was the place where she wanted to put her money. Over the years, she acquired a mortgage with us and also an auto loan when she decided to buy out her car lease. At First Financial, we take pride in offering loans with low rates, flexible terms, and quick approval decisions.

How to join First Financial

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in NJ, you’re eligible to become a member. Businesses in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and our community partners are also eligible for membership. To join, all you have to do is open a savings account with $5. It’s that easy! Once you’re a member, your immediate family members can sign up too. To get started, call us at 732.312.1500, email info@firstffcu.com, or stop by any of our local branches.